There is another segment of the computer market which is where the real cutting edge is. That is High Productivity Computing. Several projects Mr. Papermaster worked on at IBM , Roadrunner being the highest profile, have very strict security requirements. DOJ could have enforced a 4 year layoff based on the usage of the modified Cell BE chip (double precision)usage in Roadrunner. Apple has a checkered history when it comes to compliance with the ITAR regulations. By the time that the agreement ends technology will have moved beyond the ITAR restrictions. The commenting press and public have missed the core issue which was Mr. Papermaster's direct responsibility for the development of DARPA funded and regulated technology.

Feudalism would solve this problem. If the employees were made into serfs then the corps could trade them like little bits of IP.

IP embedded in flesh and bone.